Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or related field; or equivalent experience
5+ years in embedded firmware development, debugging, integration, or sustaining engineering; or 3 years with a master's degree
Experience in root cause analysis and corrective action processes
Proficient in debugging embedded C/C++ firmware using tools like JTAG/SWD and GDB
Familiar with RTOS, bootloaders, BSPs, and peripheral drivers
Knowledge of embedded communication protocols (CAN, EtherCAT, I2C, SPI, UART, Ethernet)
Scripting skills in Python for test automation and data analysis
Responsibilities
Lead root cause analysis and failure investigations for embedded firmware issues
Provide troubleshooting and support for embedded systems including bootloaders and device drivers
Investigate system-level issues using debugging tools and diagnostic testing
Review firmware updates and system configurations for performance risks
Develop and maintain firmware diagnostics and automated testing procedures
Support system integration and release readiness, including firmware testing and issue tracking
Analyze firmware performance trends to identify reliability improvements
Document findings and provide technical guidance to junior engineers
Benefits
In-office work environment
Standard lab/production setting with safety protocols
Opportunities for collaboration across multiple engineering disciplines
Potential for travel to other facilities or clients
Commitment to Sigma Design Core Values
Full Job Description
Systems Engineer - Embedded Firmware
Position Details:
The hiring range for this role is typically between $95,000 and $116,000 annually, with the full range extending to $137,000 annually, based on experience, internal equity, and career progression
This position will be In Office
Primary Function: The Systems Engineer - Embedded Firmware is responsible for troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and sustaining support of embedded firmware systems within advanced robotic platforms. This position investigates firmware failures, drives corrective actions, and supports system integration and reliability improvements from prototype development through production.
Essential Job Functions - Responsibilities:
Lead root cause analysis and failure investigations for embedded firmware issues, including system crashes, boot failures, memory corruption, timing issues, and communication errors
Provide troubleshooting and sustaining support for embedded systems, including bootloaders, RTOS, device drivers, motor-control firmware, and communication interfaces
Investigate system-level issues across firmware, software, and hardware interfaces using debugging tools, firmware logs, crash dumps, and diagnostic testing
Review firmware updates, software changes, and system configurations to identify potential risks related to performance, timing, and system reliability
Develop and maintain firmware diagnostics, self-tests, automated testing, and regression procedures to improve failure detection and resolution
Support system integration and release readiness, including firmware testing, version control, compatibility, and issue tracking
Analyze firmware performance and failure trends to identify opportunities for reliability and system improvements
Document investigation findings, debugging procedures, and troubleshooting guidelines; provide technical guidance to technicians and junior engineers
Collaborate with firmware, electrical, systems software, controls, manufacturing, and safety teams to support prototype development and system integration
Follow Business Technology policies to protect sensitive data and reduce information security occurrences.
Education and Experience: (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities)
Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or a related field, or equivalent required
Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in embedded firmware development, debugging, integration, or sustaining engineering; alternatively, a master's degree with 3 years of relevant experience
Experience with root cause analysis, failure investigations, and corrective action processes
Proficiency debugging embedded C/C++ firmware using tools such as JTAG/SWD, GDB, serial consoles, and log analysis
Experience with RTOS or bare-metal systems, bootloaders, board support packages (BSPs), and peripheral drivers
Familiarity with embedded communication protocols such as CAN, EtherCAT, I2C, SPI, UART, and Ethernet
Scripting experience, preferably Python, for test automation and data analysis; familiarity with version control and firmware continuous integration
Strong written and verbal English language communication skills
Excellent teamwork/interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, both within and outside one's own work group
Demonstrate commitment and adherence to Sigma Design Core Values
Pass a post-offer background verification
Work Environment Standard lab/production environment. Appropriate safety garments (PPE) must be worn. Occasionally may be required to work in environmental conditions that emulate typical user environments in order to facilitate design testing and validation. Occasionally may be required to travel as required to other facilities, clients, or suppliers. Must be able to stand and work as long as 12 hours in different positions. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.
